Devonshire Cougars and Hamilton Parish will get the new football season underway when they clash in the new-look Dudley Eve competition in 12 days' time.

The two sides kick off at 1 p.m. at Bernard Park in the first game of a double-header that will also see North Village Rams and PHC Zebras meet for the second tie at 3 p.m.

Defending champions Dandy Town Hornets will not see action until Tuesday, October 6 when they will be up against Parish, starting at 7pm, while in the late game Boulevard Blazers and PHC Zebras will meet at 9 p.m., with both matches taking place at Devonshire Rec.

This season's Dudley Eve is essentially being run on the same basis as the old Martonmere Cup, but with a new name. The format will remain the same through the group stages, with PHC, Village, and Blazers in one group, and Cougars, Hornets and Parish in the other.

The top two from each group will go into the semi-finals, and there will be no replays, with extra-time and penalties being used to decide games on the day.

"The BFA would like to wish all the clubs the very best this season as it promises to be an exciting one. We encourage all football lovers across the Island to come out and support their favourite teams this coming season while observing the FIFA code of "Fair Play"," said David Sabir, General Secretary of the Bermuda Football Association.

"In addition, the BFA would like to reiterate our call for all involved to ensure a high level of respect for fellow players, referees, opponents and fans during the games so that we can all enjoy the positive benefits of the game in Bermuda."

While the Dudley Eve competition will mark the start of the season proper, the traditional opener, the Charity Cup, takes place this Sunday.

The game between league champions Devonshire Cougars and FA Cup winners Boulevard Blazers will take place at Wellington Oval in St. George's, with the match kicking off at 3 p.m.. It will be preceded by the women's game between Lady Cougars and Lady Rams.